OKLAHOMA — A dangerous fire weather setup is unfolding across the Southern Plains today, with a widespread Red Flag Fire Warning stretching across nearly all of Oklahoma, including Tulsa and Oklahoma City, as critical wildfire conditions intensify.
The latest map shows virtually the entire state shaded in red/pink, signaling extreme fire danger. Areas surrounding Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and much of central and eastern Oklahoma are under the highest concern as dry fuels, gusty winds, and low humidity combine to create explosive fire potential.
Red Flag Warning Covers Most of Oklahoma
The warning spans from the Kansas border southward through central Oklahoma and into parts of southern counties. Major metro areas impacted include:
- Tulsa
- Oklahoma City
- Surrounding counties across central and eastern Oklahoma
Neighboring states are also seeing elevated fire risk, with southern Kansas and portions of Arkansas included in the broader fire-weather setup. However, Oklahoma appears to be the epicenter of today’s most critical conditions. Red Flag Warnings are issued when a combination of strong winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation can lead to rapid wildfire growth.
Why Conditions Are So Dangerous Today
Fire weather days like this are driven by a volatile mix of:
- Strong, gusty winds capable of pushing flames quickly
- Extremely low relative humidity
- Dry grasses and dormant winter fuels
- Above-normal temperatures in some areas
Under these conditions, even a small spark — from outdoor burning, equipment, vehicles, or downed power lines — can quickly turn into a fast-moving wildfire. Officials are urging residents across Oklahoma to avoid any outdoor burning and use extreme caution with activities that could generate sparks.
Rapid Fire Spread Possible Near Tulsa and Oklahoma City
The visual data highlights a concentrated zone of concern across central Oklahoma, including the Tulsa corridor. With open plains terrain and winter-dried vegetation, fire spread rates can become dangerous in a matter of minutes.
Fire crews often struggle to contain blazes on days like this because wind shifts and intensity can quickly change fire direction and speed…